Patriots, Settlers, and the Origins of American Social Policy

Laura Jensen's book presents a novel account of the development of America's first entitlement policies. It is widely believed that the United States lagged far behind other countries in developing national social programs. Yet, as Jensen reveals in this new analysis, entitlements were an important Federal policy device from 1776 on. Used to stimulate positive actions in the service of government goals, Federal pension and land entitlements played a vital role in building the American state and nation.